Can you describe your role in helping students complete their Duke of Edinburgh Award?
As the Duke of Edinburgh Manager, my role is to support students through every stage of their DofE journey. I help them choose suitable activities for each section — Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition — ensuring they meet the Award’s requirements and align with their personal interests and goals. I provide guidance on planning, logging evidence, and time management, and I liaise with assessors to verify progress.
I also organize and oversee expedition training, preparation, and assessments, making sure all safety, safeguarding, and DofE standards are met. Throughout the process, I encourage participants to develop resilience, teamwork, independence, and leadership skills, helping them get the most out of the experience and successfully achieve their Award. I love seeing students challenge themselves, try new things, and have fun along the way.
What inspired you to get involved with the DofE programme?
I’ve always been the outdoorsy type — happiest when there’s mud on my boots and a challenge ahead, or behind a camera trying to capture it all! I studied Adventure and Media at university, which really sparked my love for helping others experience the outdoors in creative, meaningful ways and meant loads of expeditions around l and the Lake District — climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, you name it. After that, I worked as an outdoor instructor, guiding groups through adventures that built confidence, teamwork, and resilience. The DofE programme brings all of that together — it’s about giving young people those “wow, I actually did it!” moments. As a manager, I love being the person who makes that magic happen, supporting young people get the most out of their DofE journey.
Which levels of the award (Bronze, Silver, Gold) have you supported students through?
I’ve supported students through the Bronze level so far, as I only started last year. It’s been a great learning experience, and I’m really enjoying getting to know the process. I’m not quite confident enough to take on the Silver or Gold levels yet—but that’s definitely a goal for the future as I build more experience and confidence!
How do you motivate students to stay committed throughout the programme?
Staying motivated from start to finish can be challenging, but I make sure every participant feels supported, inspired, and proud of their progress. We help each young person choose activities that genuinely interest them, whether it’s a new skill, a favourite sport, or a volunteering opportunity that makes a difference. When students connect their Award activities to their passions, motivation naturally follows.
Weekly check-ins help students stay on track, reflect on their achievements, and overcome any challenges along the way.
Every milestone is worth celebrating. We make sure to recognise students’ hard work and dedication through school assemblies, updates on progress and rewards— reminding them how far they’ve come and inspiring them to reach the finish line.
Can you share a memorable moment or success story from your time supporting students?
One of the most memorable moments I’ve had supporting students was at the end of the first day of an expedition. We gathered around a crackling campfire, the smell of smoke and melting chocolate from s’mores filling the air. Students were laughing, sharing stories about the day’s challenges, and teasing each other about who struggled. Watching them unwind after a long day—seeing their tired faces light up with smiles—was incredible. It was in that simple moment, with sticky fingers and laughter echoing into the night, that I realized how much they had grown already: learning to persevere, support each other, and find joy in the small victories. That night, the fire wasn’t just warming us—it was a spark of confidence, connection, and accomplishment that I’ll never forget.
What do you enjoy most about being involved in the DofE programme?
What I love most about being involved in the Duke of Edinburgh programme is seeing young people step out of their comfort zones and achieve things they never thought possible. Whether it’s trying a completely new activity, tackling a challenging expedition, or making a difference in their community, it’s amazing to witness their confidence and skills grow. Being able to support them on that journey and celebrate their achievements is incredibly rewarding.
